This Bourbon Peach Jam is a sweet and tangy treat that captures the taste of summer. Juicy peaches meet a splash of bourbon for an extra kick, perfect for spreading on toast!
I love how easy it is to make and the smell while it cooks is heavenly! Pancakes with this jam on top? Yes, please! Your breakfast guests will think you’re a gourmet chef! 🍑🥃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches make this jam burst with flavor. If fresh peaches aren’t available, frozen peaches can work too—just thaw and drain them first. Canned peaches can also be used, but make sure to rinse off the syrup.
Bourbon: This ingredient brings a unique richness to the jam. If you prefer not to use alcohol, try substituting with apple cider or peach nectar for a non-alcoholic version that still has a lovely flavor.
Citrus Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the jam and balances the sweetness. You could use lime juice or even orange juice as a substitute if you like a different citrus twist.
Spices (Cinnamon & Vanilla): These are optional but can enhance the flavor. If you don’t have cinnamon, try nutmeg or allspice! Vanilla extract can be replaced with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
Pectin: Fruit pectin helps the jam thicken. If you don’t have a commercial pectin pack, you can use homemade pectin from tart apples. Just boil apple peels and cores to extract a natural thickener!
How Do I Ensure My Jam Thickens Perfectly?
Getting the right consistency for your jam is key. First, let the diced peaches macerate with sugar. This softens them and releases their juices, which is super important for your jam’s texture.
- Start boiling the mixture gently, stirring often to prevent burning. Once it’s bubbling, add the fruit pectin immediately.
- Bring it to a full rolling boil, where the bubbles don’t stop even when you stir. This is when it’s ready for the timer—boil it for 1-2 minutes.
- To test if it’s thickened, drop a spoonful on a cold plate and push it with your finger. If it holds its shape, you’re good to go!
Also, remember to remove any foam after cooking; it can affect the appearance and texture of your jam. Happy canning!
How to Make the Tastiest Bourbon Peach Jam
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fruits and Sweeteners:
- 2 pounds fresh peaches, peeled and diced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Optional Flavorings:
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Preserving:
- 1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (like Sure-Jell)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 1 hour in total. You’ll spend around 30 minutes preparing the fruits and ingredients, and then another 15 to 20 minutes cooking. Lastly, give yourself some time to process and cool the jars, which will help your jam last longer. Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Jars:
First things first! Sterilize your jars and lids by placing them in boiling water for 10 minutes. This helps keep your jam fresh and tasty. Afterward, set them aside to air dry while you prepare the jam.
2. Macerate the Peaches:
In a large pot, combine your diced peaches with the granulated sugar. Let them sit for about 30 minutes. This will help the peaches release their delicious juices and create a sweet, syrupy mixture.
3. Mix in Flavorings:
Once the peaches have macerated, add the bourbon, fresh lemon juice, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the pot. Mix everything together well for an amazing blend of flavors!
4. Cook the Mixture:
Place your pot on medium heat and gently bring the mixture to a boil. Stir it frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. You want everything to heat up evenly.
5. Thicken the Jam:
When the mixture is boiling, it’s time to add the fruit pectin. Stir it in, then bring everything back to a full rolling boil. Let it boil for about 1-2 minutes, or until your jam thickens. A fun way to check the thickness is to drop a little on a cold plate; if it sets, it’s ready!
6. Skim and Cool:
Once thickened, remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. If any foam forms on the top, skim it off with a spoon—this will keep your jam looking lovely.
7. Jar the Jam:
Carefully pour the hot jam into your prepared sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top (called headspace). Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to make sure they will seal properly.
8. Seal the Jars:
Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until they’re nice and tight, but not super tight—just fingertip tight is perfect!
9. Process for Preservation:
Now, process the jars in a boiling water bath for about 5-10 minutes to help preserve your jam. If you live in a higher altitude, you may need to adjust the processing time a bit.
10. Cool and Store:
Once processed, carefully remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely on a towel or wire rack. Check the seals—if the tops don’t flex when you press them, you’ve done a great job!
11. Enjoy Your Delicious Jam:
After cooling, label your jars and store them in a cool, dark place. Now you can enjoy your homemade bourbon peach jam on toast, desserts, or even as a glaze for meats! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before proceeding with the recipe. You might need to adjust the sugar depending on the sweetness of the peaches.
What Can I Substitute for Bourbon?
If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with apple juice or white grape juice for a non-alcoholic version. For an adult alternative, rum or brandy would also work well, adding a different flavor profile to your jam!
How Long Can I Store the Jam?
Your bourbon peach jam can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year if properly sealed. Once opened, refrigerate the jam and enjoy it within 3 weeks for the best quality. Always check for any signs of spoilage before using!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Jam?
Absolutely! You can decrease the amount of sugar if you prefer a less sweet jam, but keep in mind that sugar also helps with the jam’s preservation and consistency. If reducing sugar, consider using a pectin that specifically accommodates lower sugar levels, or add a bit more pectin to help it set properly.
